The pancreas is a glandular organ of the digestive system responsible for producing the hormone insulin, which regulates blood sugar levels. Additionally, it plays a role in the digestive system by secreting enzymes that aid in digestion.

Facts about the Pancreas:

• The pancreas is about the size of a hand.
• The pancreas produces three different enzymes that aid in digestion.
• The pancreas is located behind the stomach and in front of the spinal column.

Diseases that may require Pancreas Transplantation:

• Diabetes.
• Cases of uncontrolled low blood sugar levels.
• Acute kidney damage.

Prevention of Pancreatic Diseases:

• Consuming an adequate amount of vegetables and fruits daily.
• Maintaining a healthy weight.
• Engaging in regular physical activity.

Diabetes is considered the most significant disease resulting from the weakness or failure of the pancreas.

Prevention of Diabetes:

• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Engage in regular physical activity.
• Follow a balanced and healthy diet.
• Avoid risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.
• Avoid stress and anxiety.

Diabetes control:

• Taking insulin regularly according to the instructions of a specialist doctor.
• Counting calories and macronutrients in the diet.
• Regularly checking blood sugar levels.
• Following a healthy diet plan as advised by a nutritionist.
• Engaging in regular physical activity.
• Maintaining a healthy weight.

What is Pancreas Transplantation?

Pancreas transplantation is the transfer of a healthy pancreas from a deceased donor to another person who suffers from pancreatic dysfunction.

Reasons for Pancreas Transplantation:

If the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, blood sugar levels may rise to unhealthy levels, leading to the development of diabetes

Condition for Pancreas Donation:

A person can express their desire to donate their organs after death, including the pancreas, by registering their desire through the Tawakkalna application and sharing this desire with their family. 

What are the types of Pancreas Transplantation?

There are two types of pancreas transplant procedures, which may vary from one organ transplantation center to another:

1. Simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation (SPK): For patients with diabetes and end-stage renal disease, the patient receives both the pancreas and kidney from the same deceased donor.
2. Pancreas-after-kidney transplantation (PAK): The patient receives a kidney transplant first to overcome the need for dialysis, followed by a pancreas transplant later.

What is the duration of time that the pancreas tissue remains viable for transplantation into the patient's body after removal from the donor's body?

The pancreas tissue must be transplanted into the patient's body within a maximum of 12 hours after being removed from the donor's body.

Post Pancreas Transplant Guidelines:

1. The patient typically leaves the hospital within 2-3 weeks after a pancreas transplant.
2. It is important to keep scheduled appointments with the medical team after a pancreas transplant.
3. Drinking enough water is necessary for optimal hydration.
4. Engaging in physical activities should be done under the supervision of the medical team.
5. Following food safety practices to minimize the risk of infection and food poisoning is important.

Complications of Pancreas Transplantation:

1. Blood clots.
2. Bleeding.
3. Infection.
4. Pancreatitis.
5. Failure of the transplanted pancreas to function.
6. Rejection of the transplanted pancreas.

Life of a Diabetic Patient after Pancreas Transplantation:

• Return to daily life activities.
• Freedom from dietary and fluid restrictions.
• Reversal of serious complications caused by diabetes.
• Maintaining a normal blood sugar level.